7 Days in Goa: A Family Adventure Filled with Sun, Sand, and Smiles
In October 2024, my family embarked on a long-awaited trip to Goa, India’s coastal paradise. Our group of ten—my mother, two maternal uncles and two maternal aunt, their sons, and me—set out to create memories that blended relaxation, exploration, and Goa charm. From golden beaches to spice-laden cuisine and vibrant culture, our seven-day itinerary was a perfect mix of adventure and bonding. Here’s a glimpse into our unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival & Settling Into Goa Vibes
We landed at Goa International Airport on October 20,
greeted by balmy 28°C weather and the salty tang of the Arabian Sea. After
checking into a cozy beachfront villa in North Goa, we freshened up
and headed straight to Calangute Beach for a sunset stroll.
The kids (my cousins!) sprinted toward the waves, while the adults sipped on
fresh coconut water.
Dinner was a feast at Martin’s Corner, a legendary Goa restaurant. We devoured fish curry rice, prawn balchão, and bebinca (layered coconut dessert), all paired with live music. Laughter, clinking glasses, and the sound of crashing waves set the tone for the days ahead.
Day 2: Beach Hopping & Water Sports
We dedicated Day 2 to exploring Goa’s iconic beaches.
Starting at Anjuna Beach, we admired its rocky cliffs and vibrant
flea market stalls. The boys tried parasailing, while my aunt and mom relaxed
under coconut-leaf umbrellas.
By afternoon, we shifted to Baga Beach for
jet-skiing and banana boat rides. Lunch was at Britto’s, a beach
shack serving crispy fried calamari and Goa sausages. As the sun dipped, we
boarded a sunset cruise on the Chapora River, clinking glasses
of feni (local cashew liquor) to celebrate family togetherness.
Day 3: Old Goa’s Heritage & Panjim’s Charm
A break from beaches! We explored Old Goa, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting the stunning Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé
Cathedral. The grandeur of Portuguese-era architecture left us in awe.
Next, we wandered through Fontainhas, Panjim’s
Latin Quarter, with its pastel-colored houses and cobblestone streets. Lunch
at Mum’s Kitchen introduced us to authentic Saraswat cuisine—solkadi (kokum
drink) and mushroom xacuti were hits.
The evening ended at Miramar Beach, where we
watched the Mandovi River meet the sea.
Day 4: South Goa Serenity
We drove south to Palolem Beach, a
crescent-shaped haven fringed by palm trees. While the uncles kayaked, the rest
of us lazed in hammocks or swam in the calm waters. Lunch at Dropadi featured
tandoori pomfret and garlic naan, enjoyed with toes in the sand.
Post-lunch, we visited Cabo de Rama Fort,
soaking in panoramic views of the coastline. Back at the villa, we hosted a BBQ
night, grilling prawns and sharing childhood stories under the stars.
Day 5: Spice Plantations & Dudhsagar Waterfalls
A day of adventure! We toured Sahakari Spice Farm,
inhaling the aromas of cardamom, vanilla, and pepper. The kids fed elephants,
while the adults enjoyed a traditional Goa thali served on banana leaves.
Later, we trekked to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, a
milky cascade plunging 310 meters. The boys squealed while wading in the
natural pools, and we capped off the day with spicy chicken cafreal at
a roadside dhaba.
Day 6: Leisure & Local Markets
A free day! Some of us shopped for souvenirs at Mapusa
Market (think cashews, ceramics, and spices), while others stayed
poolside at the villa.
By evening, we dressed up for a farewell dinner at Antonio@31,
a fine-dining gem in Sangolda. Tears mixed with laughter as we reminisced about
the week—how the kids bonded, the uncles’ hilarious dance attempts, and Mom’s
newfound love for feni!
Day 7: Goodbye, Goa!
Our final morning began with a quiet walk on Morjim
Beach, where we spotted fishermen hauling in their nets. After a hearty
breakfast of poha and chai, we packed our bags,
leaving behind sandy flip-flops and carrying home hearts full of joy.
Tips for Families Visiting Goa
- Stay
Connected: Rent a tempo traveler for hassle-free group travel.
- Foodie
Alert: Don’t miss Goa seafood, sorpotel, and bibinca.
- Safety
First: Apply sunscreen religiously—Goa sun is no joke!
- Souvenirs:
Buy handmade pottery from Curlies Market or azulejos tiles from
Fontainhas.
Have you visited Goa with family? Share your favorite moments in the comments below! 🌊✨
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